Rockland United Methodist Church, the oldest Methodist Church in the Belpre area, had its’ beginning in 1822 when a class of 21 members met in a schoolhouse located near the site of the present church.  The following year a second class was formed and Methodism became strong in Belpre Settlement.  After meeting in the schoolhouse and the homes the people decided to build a meeting house.  Funds were raised by a subscription paper circulated in 1827.  Five years later on June 9, 1832, the first service was held in the small white frame church.  It was then known as Cedarville Methodist Episcopal Church and served the community for 129 years.

Over the years small rooms were added to the rear of the old church.  In 1957 the educational building was added across the back, which provided class rooms, a social room and a kitchen.

By 1960 the attendance at Rockland Church had increased at a rapid rate to the point where the old frame church was inadequate for the memberships.  In 1961 due to the condition of the old building it was deemed necessary and advisable to build a new sanctuary on the same site.  The building program was financed by contributions from members and friends.  The old church was paid for in the spring of 1961.  The sanctuary was completed and the first service was held on September 10, 1961.  A service of dedication was held April 25, 1965. 

In 1968, a modern brick, three bedroom parsonage with attached garage and basement was completed to replace the old parsonage.  Dedication services were held on Oct 1, 1972, which was also the 150^th. Anniversary of Rockland Church.

In 1968 an important plan of union brought together the Evangelical United Brethren Church and the Methodist Church.  Thus was born the United Methodist Church.

Members of Rockland Church had long had a vision of expanding the church facilities to include more class rooms, larger social room, a kitchen and new restrooms.

In 1993 a task force was formed to research possibilities.  By July 1994 a fund drive was completed and a ground breaking ceremony was held in 1995.

Construction progress rapidly and by November 1996, the upper floor was completed.  On November 3, over 170 thankful people attended the first dinner in the new fellowship hall.  By March 1997 the basement class rooms were finished.  In May a service of consecration was held for the new building.

This vision was accomplished through the faith, volunteer efforts and financial support provided by the congregation and friends of Rockland Church.